The panelists discussed how women played an integral role in advancing the civil rights movement from the time of slavery through present day– though few have received public notoriety. In addition to Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Sojourner Truth, Ida B. Wells, and Ella Baker, Giddings and Williams named just a few of the admirable women that history books often fail to recognize:

Phyllis Wheatley (1753-1784) - Wheatley was the first African American to publish a book of poetry, an especially novel feat given that Wheatley was a slave, and slaves were largely forbidden to learn to read and write.

Giddings and Williams underscored how the civil rights movement not only helped all women – young and old, black and white alike – but also all people. While the talk had a historical focus, they made clear connections to the present, calling out current racial and economic injustices that mimic those fought during the civil rights movement. “It’s not so different from today,” said Williams, referencing such issues as the recent undermining of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. We’ve still got a lot of work to do.”

Ultimately, Williams, Giddings and Goff reminded us of the unbridled power that women possess to effect change – especially at the grassroots level. The League of Women Voters understands this power well. Rooted in the women’s suffrage movement, our work is fueled by thousands of League activists in nearly 800 chapters across the country. We’re proud to celebrate Women’s History Month as a means to highlight the invaluable – and often untold – role that women play in Making Democracy Work®.